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Lebanon, Mount Lebanon Railway Station in Beirut 1890

This photograph, taken in 1890 by the renowned French photographer Félix Bonfils, is one of the most important visual records documenting the early stages of urban and transportation development in Lebanon during the late 19th century.

The image shows the Mount Lebanon Railway Station in Beirut, one of the key stations that linked the capital to the inland regions through rail lines that played a central role in the movement of trade and passengers.

During this period, Beirut was undergoing a significant urban transformation, becoming an increasingly important port city in the Eastern Mediterranean. The introduction of the railway contributed greatly to the economic revival and strengthened the connection between the coast and the mountains, facilitating the movement of people and goods across different Lebanese regions.

The photographer Félix Bonfils was one of the pioneers of photography in the Middle East during the 19th century. His work is renowned for its precise documentation of cities, landscapes, and historical landmarks across the region, making his photographs an invaluable reference for historians and researchers.

The Mount Lebanon Railway Station was part of an ambitious project connecting Beirut to its mountainous hinterland.

It played a crucial role in supporting local commerce and trade exchange.

The photograph captures the essence of late Ottoman architecture and the early stages of railway infrastructure in the region.

Today, this photograph is considered one of Lebanon’s visual treasures, providing a rare window into daily life and the beginnings of modern infrastructure in Beirut more than 130 years ago.
It is not just an image of a train station — it is a living witness to a historical era during which Lebanon was stepping confidently into modernity.